A Phenomenological Study on the Understanding of the Youth Volunteers of Volunteer Services

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Volunteer services are generally considered an altruistic activity in which an individual or group provides services with no financial gain. Although volunteerism is more prevalent in older people with a steady income, the youth nowadays are increasingly involved in many volunteer activities. In this study, we tried to describe the experiences of youth who engage in volunteer activities and explain how youth volunteers understand volunteer services.

METHODS

A qualitative method of research was used in this study. A group of students in Balete Integrated School who experienced volunteer services was interviewed using a phenomenological approach and semi-structured face-to-face interview. Content analysis was used in identifying themes.

RESULTS

Understanding of volunteerism, as described by the participants, could be categorized based on their knowledge about reasons underlying their intentions of joining volunteer activities. For them the act of volunteerism is an act of (1) gaining new experiences and insights;(2) creating connections with people, and is related to achieving; and(3) a sense of accomplishment. The result of the study showed that volunteer services contribute growth and progress to oneself and the community.

DISCUSSIONS

Results proved the importance of understanding volunteer services by the youth volunteers. Previously reviewed literature also reflects a similar way of how individuals understand volunteerism activities such as gaining or acquiring new experiences and skills. For many students or youth volunteers, this is the most important reason for volunteering. The results may suggest that giving equal importance to youth engaging in volunteer activities is also a significant way of allowing them to learn new essential skills and experience which are vital to their personal development.